northsidesun.com • The Northside Sun • Jackson, Mississippihttp://northsidesun.com/
enBrittany Cain on Team Jackson newshttp://northsidesun.com/front-page-slideshow-news/brittany-cain-team-jackson-news
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Brittany%20Cain%20%282%29%20again.jpg?itok=RLqgKwi-" width="576" height="360" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>Brittany Cain was named executive director of Team Jackson earlier this year. Cain, a Hattiesburg native, has degrees in anthropology and political science from Millsaps College and has worked in various places, including Washington, D.C., and New Haven, Conn. She and her husband Ben have one child and another one on the way. She recently spoke to Sun Senior Staff Writer Anthony Warren about Team Jackson and its efforts to improve life in the capital city.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What is Team Jackson, exactly?</p>
<p>“Team Jackson is an area nonprofit. We are membership-based, and made up of individual members and businesses. We have about 100 businesses and 100 individual members. We are committed to highlighting the positive things happening in Jackson and building upon that to make change. Our goal is to educate members and provide them opportunities for empowerment and education.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>How do you do that?</p>
<p>“We have several different approaches – quarterly lunches to provide a platform that focuses on a variety of topics. Last spring, we brought in the developers of the District at Eastover to discuss their plans for that. Recently we had Primus Wheeler, with the Jackson Medical Mall Foundation, who discussed all the work they’re doing. The luncheon in November focused on local arts.</p>
<p>“We also have some events throughout the year, like our State Street Open House, which highlights development going on in the corridor. We’ve only done this a couple of times and are considering expanding (to other areas beyond State Street).</p>
<p>“The last thing we do is identify two initiatives that we identify each year to support. In the past year, we had the Museum to Market Trail and Smith Park. We’ve seen great success with the Museum to Market Trail, and it’s actually going to happen.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What is the latest on the trail?</p>
<p>“My understanding is, at this point, they are identifying general contractors for the contract, and (the city) is about to replace a water main (that runs along the path). I think the time frame (for completion) is 2018.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Is Team Jackson strictly for people and businesses downtown?</p>
<p>“No; that is a question I get a lot. We were started through Downtown Jackson Partners, so certainly our focus in the very beginning was on the downtown area. However, we have expanded that. The luncheon focusing on the medical mall was a perfect example of (focusing on good news) happening outside downtown. The goal with our three-year strategic plan is to expand Team Jackson’s presence further and further until we represent the whole city limits. Our current membership base is representative of (the whole city of Jackson) as well, and it’s positive to see we have those voices in our group.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I want to go back to something you mentioned earlier. You said Team Jackson focuses on the positive. Does the group just gloss over the negative things happening in Jackson?</p>
<p>“We exist in the same environment everyone else does. We can’t gloss over some of the concerns people have. What we acknowledge is that Mississippi will thrive when the capital city thrives.” </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Will Team Jackson be involved in the next mayoral election?</p>
<p>“Probably not. That’s not really the focus of our organization, and there are other groups people may want to consider getting involved in from that side. We’re not going to get involved in the election, but we will try to foster a good relationship with whoever the mayor and new city council will be.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>How is the group’s current relationship with the mayor and council?</p>
<p>“We are always reaching out to them and inviting them to attend our events. We’ve had a few that have taken us up on that. The luncheons can conflict with city council meetings, and we are working to adjust our schedule accordingly.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>How long has Team Jackson been around?</p>
<p>“It’s been around for about five years. We received our 501(c)3 status over the summer. This is a new stage of Team Jackson. Previously, we existed in a more casual way. Now that we have this status, we are looking to grow and expand our membership base and the projects we work on. Currently, we provide additional support to projects that other groups are working on. Our goal is to eventually offer our own programming.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Is there anything you would like to tackle that Team Jackson hasn’t yet?</p>
<p>“I think one of the things I could link between all our projects is talent retention. My hope is to focus on the idea of talent retention and plug into aspects of that. Part of that is the idea to stop the population loss that is happening in the capital city. That certainly is an ambitious goal, but it shows the kind of passion our members have that they want to focus on these big issues.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>How do you stop the population drain? It seems everyone knows about it, but no one has been able to do anything about it.</p>
<p>“We’re not offering the silver bullet. The way we have focused on that is the place-making aspect – providing outlets and opportunities for the community to get out in their city and enjoy it.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You’ve been to other cities. What does Jackson need, when looking at cities like D.C. and New Haven?</p>
<p>“We have so many opportunities here. We are fortunate that we have a lot of space we can work with. I think we face very similar challenges of other capital cities when it comes to the tax base. I think one of the main priorities for us is to increase revenues, so we can invest in the capital city.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You mention a three-year strategic plan. When will it be finished?</p>
<p>“In January. I’m working on it with the members. We had a retreat a few weeks ago, and I’m putting the final touches on the notes. I’m also working with our steering committee and advisory board, so it will go through a few more layers before it’s announced to the membership.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If people want more information about Team Jackson, what do they need to do?</p>
<p>“Our Web site is <a href="http://www.teamjxn.com">www.teamjxn.com</a>.”</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-section field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/front-page-slideshow"><span>Front Page Slideshow</span></a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news"><span>News</span></a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-event-calendar-date field-type-datetime field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Date:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><span class="date-display-single">Thursday, December 8, 2016 - 15:00</span></div></div></div>Thu, 08 Dec 2016 21:10:11 +0000wmccain3328 at http://northsidesun.comCounty repaves Adkins Blvd.; project costs $170,000 and affects nearly 10,000 motoristshttp://northsidesun.com/front-page-slideshow-news/county-repaves-adkins-blvd-project-costs-170000-and-affects-nearly-10000
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Adkins.JPG?itok=_UDCt48K" width="576" height="360" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>A major street on the Northside is now providing motorists with smoother commutes, thanks to the Hinds County Board of Supervisors.</p>
<p>The county recently repaved Adkins Blvd./Colonial Circle from Ridgewood Road to Old Canton Road.</p>
<p>The work cost approximately $170,000, and will affect nearly 10,000 motorists a day.</p>
<p>The road was chosen, in part, because it is a major roadway in the area, and because of safety issues there, according to District One Supervisor Robert Graham.</p>
<p>“Adkins not only was in bad condition but presented a hazard. If you come up on a pothole and slow down, you’ll get hit from behind. If you veer right (to miss a pothole), you’ll end up in someone’s yard. If you veer left, you’ll be hit in a head-on collision,” he said.</p>
<p>He said numerous accidents have occurred there as a result.</p>
<p>The street connects two of the area’s major commercial corridors – Old Canton and Ridgewood, and will soon provide access to Colonial Highlands, a mixed-use development planned for the former Colonial Country Club golf course.</p>
<p>The development will include more than 600 residential units, as well as 40,600 square feet of retail and office space, a 29,000-square-foot grocery store and 31,000-square-foot senior center.</p>
<p>Adkins/Colonial averages around 9,900 vehicles a day, Mississippi Department of Transportation data shows.</p>
<p>Jackson-based firm Dickerson and Bowen did the repaving, and Lane Line LLC, of Flowood, did the striping. New markings were also being added to increase motorists’ visibility at night, Graham said.</p>
<p>Crews were finishing up the work last week.</p>
<p>Graham said he and the contractors have already gotten compliments for the project.</p>
<p>“It’s amazing. People stop by and blow their horns and say ‘thank you.’ People have stopped by to give water to the people paving the road,” he said. “We still get calls from people who are very appreciative.”</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-section field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/front-page-slideshow"><span>Front Page Slideshow</span></a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news"><span>News</span></a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-event-calendar-date field-type-datetime field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Date:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><span class="date-display-single">Thursday, December 8, 2016 - 15:00</span></div></div></div>Thu, 08 Dec 2016 21:07:20 +0000wmccain3327 at http://northsidesun.comOne Lakehttp://northsidesun.com/events-news/one-lake
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/field/image/3One%20lake%2012-8.jpg?itok=4X2ejWnV" width="576" height="360" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>Dallas Quinn with McGowan Working Partners spoke recently to the Rotary Club of North Jackson, and provided an update on the proposed One Lake Project. Shown are (from left) Wyatt Emmerich, club president; John McGowan; Quinn; and club member Swan Yerger, who introduced Quinn.</p>
<p> </p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-section field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/events"><span>Events</span></a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news"><span>News</span></a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-event-calendar-date field-type-datetime field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Date:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><span class="date-display-single">Thursday, December 8, 2016 - 14:45</span></div></div></div>Thu, 08 Dec 2016 20:55:33 +0000wmccain3319 at http://northsidesun.comsession outlookhttp://northsidesun.com/front-page-slideshow-news/session-outlook-0
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/field/image/David%20Blount%20-%20Senate%20photo%202016%20%281%29.jpg?itok=vKgYpa4n" width="576" height="360" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>Blount’s pushing early voting and campaign finance reform in 2017</p>
<p>Early voting and campaign finance reform are among major priorities next year for District 29 Sen. David Blount.</p>
<p>The 2017 Mississippi legislative session is set to get under way on Tuesday, January 3.</p>
<p>Blount’s focus in the spring will include passing legislation to allow no-excuse early voting and to close loopholes in the state’s campaign finance laws.</p>
<p>“I have been working on this as part of an election package with early voting and online registration,” he said. “(This) has been endorsed by Secretary Hosemann’s task force and has bipartisan support.”</p>
<p>Blount was referring to the 2014 Committee to Review Election Laws, a task force put together by Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann.</p>
<p>The committee released a report in 2014 that included a number of recommendations to improve the state’s election laws, including allowing early voting for up to two weeks prior to an election.</p>
<p>“Thirty-seven states have early voting. About that many have online registration,” Blount said. “Mississippi needs to enter the 21st century.”</p>
<p>Currently, voters may vote absentee, as long as they meet one of 14 criteria established by state law. Mississippi code makes allowances for early voting if voters are serving in the military, will be out of the country, or are a student, teacher or administrator and unable to come home to vote.</p>
<p>Blount doesn’t think there will be voter fraud, because residents still must show their voter ID before being allowed to cast ballots.</p>
<p>Campaign finance reform is also on tap for the senator, and he credits Reps. Bill Denny and Cory Wilson for their efforts.</p>
<p>“There were six people in all of the Legislature working on it, and we were three of them,” Blount said, referring to himself, Denny and Wilson.</p>
<p>During the 2016 session, the three worked on legislation to, in part, prevent office-seekers from using campaign donations for personal use. The measure died in the House, but “they (Wilson and Denny) fought as hard as they could for it,” Blount said.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Infrastructure is also a major priority for Blount, who chairs the Senate Public Properties Committee.</p>
<p>He is proposing repealing last year’s Republican-backed tax cuts, and redirecting the money generated by the tax to repairing and building new state infrastructure.</p>
<p>“It would direct $6.5 billion over 20 years to infrastructure and would not raise taxes. People would be paying the same taxes they’re paying now,” he said.</p>
<p>The tax cuts were approved last year. Once they’re fully phased in, they would reduce state revenue by approximately $416 million a year. Over 20 years, the total amount would be around $6.5 billion, he said. The idea falls in line with “Excelerate Mississippi,” a proposal from the Mississippi Economic Commission that calls for allocating approximately $375 million in new revenue for state road, bridge and infrastructure work.</p>
<p>“This is an essential first step to an infrastructure program,” he said.</p>
<p>If they remain in place, the cuts will take effect on July 1.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As for other measures, Blount supports helping Jackson fund its infrastructure, but doesn’t know if he will again back the idea of a Capitol Complex Improvement District (CCID).</p>
<p>Last year, a CCID measure was passed by both houses, but was rewritten in a conference committee. The original intention of the bill was to create a district around the Mississippi State Capitol and to help pay for infrastructure improvements within it.</p>
<p>The initial bill would have dedicated approximately $15 million in new revenue for work within the district.</p>
<p>However, the bill was re-written in conference and rejected by the Hinds County delegation.</p>
<p>“The first step will be to see what the city wants to do. The fact remains that the state has a substantial investment in Jackson and should bear the costs associated with (maintaining) infrastructure around those buildings.”</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-section field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/front-page-slideshow"><span>Front Page Slideshow</span></a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news"><span>News</span></a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-event-calendar-date field-type-datetime field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Date:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><span class="date-display-single">Thursday, December 8, 2016 - 14:45</span></div></div></div>Thu, 08 Dec 2016 20:45:50 +0000wmccain3318 at http://northsidesun.comLead Schoolhttp://northsidesun.com/front-page-slideshow-news/lead-school
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/field/image/00%20StA%20board%2010-20-16.jpg?itok=8FJwE3DF" width="576" height="360" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>St. Andrew’s board of trustees</p>
<p>St. Andrew’s Episcopal School’s board of trustees for 2016-17 is (from left, back) Jay Sones, David Elliott, Jason Greener, Andrew Townes, Wilson Montjoy (chairman), Clarence Weatherspoon, Andrew Mallinson, Jim Shelson, David Pharr, Warren Jones, Paul McNeill, Ravi Raju; (front) Lisa White, Seetha Srinivasan, Honey East, Renee Ebner, Tammye Brown, Holly Wiggs, Nora Frances McRae, and Vangela Wade. Not pictured: Risa Moriarty, Patty Christie, and Sara Katherine Beckett. </p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-section field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/front-page-slideshow"><span>Front Page Slideshow</span></a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news"><span>News</span></a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-event-calendar-date field-type-datetime field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Date:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><span class="date-display-single">Thursday, December 8, 2016 - 14:45</span></div></div></div>Thu, 08 Dec 2016 20:43:30 +0000wmccain3317 at http://northsidesun.comMadison wants state to increase diversion sales taxeshttp://northsidesun.com/front-page-slideshow-news/madison-wants-state-increase-diversion-sales-taxes
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Madison_Caboose_0.jpg?itok=KzlXQRHw" width="576" height="383" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>With the legislative session of 2017 coming up, the city of Madison is looking to push the increase of diversion sales taxes.</p>
<p>“All states use a different model,” said Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler. “When you go to Walmart and spend $100, the state taxes you seven percent on that $100, and they collect it.”</p>
<p>Then the state will divert 18.5 percent of that original seven percent back to the municipality. However, in 1992, the state increased the general sales tax from six to seven percent, and lowered the diversion sales tax from 20 percent to 18.5 percent.</p>
<p>If a Madison Kroger shopper spent $100 on groceries before 1992, the shopper would be charged another $6 in sales tax. Twenty percent of that $6, $1.20, would go back to the city. </p>
<p>If a Madison Kroger shopper spent $100 on groceries after 1992, the shopper would be charged another $7 in sales tax. Eighteen and a half percent of that $7, $1.29, is given back to the city.</p>
<p>Although the city is technically getting more money back, the law was changed 24 years ago, and inflation has increased the cost of everything.</p>
<p>“Nine cents over 24 years? The price of what it takes to provide government services, those things have all gone up,” said Butler. “Look at inflation, cost of living. All we’re saying is, ‘Take it back to what it was before the state cut it 24 years ago.’ Essentially, the state cut down what we keep and increased what they keep.”</p>
<p>If money is spent commercially in unincorporated parts of any county, the state keeps all seven percent of every sales tax.</p>
<p>“A very small percentage does go to state aid roads. I’m not sure what the exact percentage is, but from what I understand it’s very small,” she said. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>From Madison’s point of view, an increase in sales tax diversion would benefit not just Madison but every town and city across the state.</p>
<p>“It’s not like a local option sales tax where some cities get it and some don’t. For years, the Mississippi Municipal League (MML) has supported the local option sales tax,” said Butler.</p>
<p>A local option sales tax can be exemplified by the One Percent Sales Tax in Jackson, where an additional one percent is levied on certain sales transactions within city limits.</p>
<p>Every local option sales tax is voted for by the public, the extra tax must be spent within the municipality limits, and the money is put toward a pre-designated purpose.</p>
<p>“I have always advocated that diversion was a fair way to deal with the sales tax issue because every city and town gets something,” said Butler. “This is the second year an increase in sales tax diversion has been on the MML agenda.” </p>
<p>Butler said any increase in the sales tax diversion would go in the general fund. “It could be spent on infrastructure, police, fire, whatever. It would be used for general fund expenditures… To me, money was taken from the cities, and all I’ve said is, ‘Give it back.’ ”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Quitman Mayor Eddie Fulton has discussed the issue with Madison officials, and he is in support of increasing the sales tax diversion back up to 20 percent as well.</p>
<p>“It’s a sore subject for mayors. It’s frustrating,” he said. “It all comes down to the governor, the speaker of the house, and the lieutenant governor. If one of those don’t like the bill or wants to kill it, it’s dead.”</p>
<p>Fulton said the idea was brought up during this year’s legislative session.</p>
<p>“The idea came from the Senate. The House had a different version so it went to conference. But it died in conference because there was never a conference committee called.” </p>
<p>Fulton said the reason for this was because Speaker of the House Philip Gunn was concerned about the state being short in funding.</p>
<p>“He told the chairman he didn’t want the bill to get out of conference,” said Fulton.</p>
<p>Because this will be the legislation’s second year in session, there is a better chance of the 1992 legislation being changed back to a 20 percent sales tax diversion.</p>
<p>“Once it’s done a second year, it’s generally more productive. All the brand new senators and representatives have a year under their belt and know how to file bills.”</p>
<p>According to Fulton, the third year (2018) will offer another opportunity if the bill isn’t passed again during the 2017 legislative session. </p>
<p>“So there’s a better chance this year with the exception of no money,” he said.</p>
<p>By the fourth year, however, production in passing legislation plummets due to elections. Fulton said the fourth-year lull is a major problem throughout the country, not just in Mississippi.</p>
<p>“Is this a year’s revenue stream going to be shared somewhat differently? I don’t think so but we’re going to push for it. If the speaker wants something done, this is something we have to make happen.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ridgeland is in support of the increase as well.</p>
<p>“We support MML to increase the diversion,” said Mayor Gene McGee. “We’ve not put anything together this year like we have in the past, but since it’s a statewide issue we just go in supporting that and explain why it’s important to us.”</p>
<p>McGee said Ridgeland has supported the local option sales tax in the past as well, but that increasing the sales tax diversion would be very important to cities in Mississippi.</p>
<p>To view Madison’s documentation on recent sales tax dollar calculations and the city’s argument for the restoration of sales tax diversion to its original 20 percent, visit <a href="http://www.northsidesun.com">www.northsidesun.com</a>. The numbers are from FY 2012, when the city started the agenda.</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-section field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/front-page-slideshow"><span>Front Page Slideshow</span></a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news"><span>News</span></a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-event-calendar-date field-type-datetime field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Date:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><span class="date-display-single">Thursday, December 8, 2016 - 14:45</span></div></div></div>Thu, 08 Dec 2016 20:41:40 +0000wmccain3316 at http://northsidesun.comConflict?http://northsidesun.com/front-page-slideshow-news/conflict
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Downtown%20Jackson%20%282%29.JPG?itok=NPjdQfa0" width="576" height="360" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>Mayor wants to hire firm in possible adversary role with city</p>
<p>A firm Mayor Tony Yarber wants to bring on as consent decree program manager may have ties with a group hoping to come off of Jackson’s sewer system.</p>
<p>Last week, the mayor asked the Jackson City Council to consider hiring Arcadis U.S. to oversee the city’s $400 million consent decree.</p>
<p>When asked by Ward Seven Councilwoman Margaret Barrett-Simon if the firm had any involvement with the West Rankin Utility Authority (WRUA), Arcadis Program Director Pete McMaster said no.</p>
<p>He did, however, tell the council Arcadis submitted a proposal to draw up plans for WRUA’s new wastewater treatment facility, but was not chosen.</p>
<p>West Rankin is attempting to come off of Jackson’s sewer system, which detractors say will cost the capital city millions of dollars in revenue each year.</p>
<p>“We were not the number one firm selected. We were approached by (the) firm who was selected to be on their team, and we accepted that role. However, we have never signed any agreement with them,” McMaster said. </p>
<p>“As it stands right now we have not signed any agreement and have (no) contractual agreement to do anything in West Rankin County.”</p>
<p>The firm chosen was Pickering.</p>
<p>In June, the Sun reported that West Rankin had signed on Pickering/Arcadis to draw up the plant, and minutes from a West Rankin meeting show that both Pickering and Arcadis were picked for the job.</p>
<p>WRUA attorney Keith Turner said he watched the council meeting online, and had contacted Pickering to see if Arcadis was still on Pickering’s team.</p>
<p>Pickering had not gotten back to Turner at deadline.</p>
<p>“I don’t know where it goes now,” he said. “It’s a good firm. They seemed pretty adamant they have no contract.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Ward One Councilman Ashby Foote said WRUA documents are in “direct conflict” with what council members were told at the meeting on November 29.</p>
<p>“That gives me serious concerns about the truthfulness of the representation they made to us. I think we need to find out more information, and I look forward to further explanation of this discrepancy.”</p>
<p>Council President Tyrone Hendrix said he would set a special meeting to discuss the Arcadis proposal further, but no meeting had been set at press time.</p>
<p>Barrett-Simon couldn’t be reached for comment.</p>
<p>Arcadis is the second firm the mayor has recommended to replace the previous program manager, Waggoner Engineering/AJA Consultants.</p>
<p>His first recommendation to bring on AECOM and its various subcontractors were twice rejected by the council earlier this year.</p>
<p>Arcadis has the second highest score among firms submitting proposals to take over the position. The firm is based in Highlands Ranch, Colo.</p>
<p>“The evaluation committee looked at the strength of all firms and this was a solid firm,” said Public Works Director Jerriot Smash.</p>
<p>He said that even though the firm was ranked second, the administration believes “it is the best way to move forward at this point.</p>
<p>“The longer this draws out, the worst shape we (will) put the city in.”</p>
<p>Smash was referring to the decree and various deadlines approaching.</p>
<p>The city entered into the decree in 2012 to bring its sewer system into compliance with federal water quality laws.</p>
<p>Under terms of the decree, the city was given 17.5 years to make some $400 million in repairs to bring the system into compliance.</p>
<p>The agreement was signed off on and is being enforced by the U.S. Department of Justice and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).</p>
<p>The Sun left a message with Arcadis’ national information line, but the call had not been returned at press time.</p>
<p>Officials with Pickering couldn’t be reached for comment.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>West Rankin has been given a permit from the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) to build its own wastewater treatment system on the Rankin County side of the Pearl River.</p>
<p>Building the plant would allow West Rankin to come off of Jackson’s sewer system, and would cost the capital city approximately $5 million a year in revenue.</p>
<p>West Rankin serves approximately 100,000 customers in Flowood, Pearl, Richland, Brandon and along the Ross Barnett Reservoir. It also serves the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport and the Mississippi State Hospital at Whitfield.</p>
<p>Collections from the authority make up about 25 percent of the flow going into the city’s Savanna Street Wastewater Treatment Plant.</p>
<p>Jackson city leaders oppose the move, because the city’s revenues would be reduced, but the cost for treating sewerage would remain the same.</p>
<p>The case is being challenged in court.</p>
<p>Yarber couldn’t be reached for comment. Questions sent to Jackson Director of Communications Shelia Byrd were not responded to. The next regularly scheduled council meeting is slated for Tuesday, December 13 at 6 p.m.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-section field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/front-page-slideshow"><span>Front Page Slideshow</span></a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news"><span>News</span></a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-event-calendar-date field-type-datetime field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Date:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><span class="date-display-single">Thursday, December 8, 2016 - 14:45</span></div></div></div>Thu, 08 Dec 2016 20:40:21 +0000wmccain3315 at http://northsidesun.comMayor Mary Butler on City of Madisonhttp://northsidesun.com/front-page-slideshow-news/mayor-mary-butler-city-madison
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/field/image/Mayor%20Mary%201.JPG?itok=g7DHpeCz" width="576" height="360" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler has been mayor of Madison for 35 years. With the help of every Madison official, she’s created a town that prioritizes rooftops over businesses, that is family-oriented, and that is built to last. Mayor Butler fell in love with Madison at the age of 15, and has fought tough battles to ensure quality of life for Madison citizens. Sun Staff Writer Megan Phillips spoke with Mayor Butler about her career in politics and what she’s done for the city.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What are you proudest of thus far?</p>
<p>“It’s exciting to see all that we dreamed for and worked for unfold. We began the journey to build a community for families in 1981. We dared to dream big, and so many people said it can’t be done, growth would go elsewhere because of the policies we’d put in place. Because of the hard work of people, volunteers, giving their talent, we’re seeing what we dreamed could happen come to fruition. And we say, and I proclaim it anywhere, ‘This is a city that prayer built.’ ”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What is your biggest disappointment, if any?</p>
<p>“It’s difficult sometimes to work through a process with antiquated state laws that hamper our ability to get things done. We’re not a home rule state. We are the government that’s closest to the people. Because of laws that have never been addressed, we’re very limited in what we can do in code enforcement, requirements on the book that shouldn’t be on the books. Have I carried the revisions? Yes, I have, to have it changed but without much success. Our hands are tied.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>How does Madison keep pace with commercial growth but still have that small-town feeling?</p>
<p>“That was part of the plan in 1981. We had our first town meeting. We wanted to hear from the people — Madison was 2,200 people then — what they wanted their community to be. Because we heard numbers that were absolutely mind boggling about the growth. We knew that we could direct the growth and build a city or we could just let it happen. Those policies that were put in place, the first in the state, were implemented, and we held true to the vision of what we wanted to do, and we never gave up that dream.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What don’t you have in Madison that you want there?</p>
<p>“At the top of our list is our town center. It would be in the historical district, because it will be the heartbeat of the commercial area, where, ‘I’ll meet you downtown for dinner.’ Because Madison was just a little farming community. We only had Main Street, and there was never a town. It was first known as Madison Station, a village, then a town, now it’s Madison the City, and it’s important that we have a downtown.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Is that in the works at all?</p>
<p>“It is, and we are still working on that.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Is there any kind of timeline?</p>
<p>“I had hoped that we would be able to make a huge announcement this year, but that may take a little time. We may look at it next year. We’re excited. We own the property, and that’s a big plus. It’s very unusual for the city to have acquired it, years and years ago with that vision.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>What are your visions for the arts center?</p>
<p>“Funds are always an issue. What’s going on at Madison Square Center for the Arts is we have programs that show that we have love for the arts, the artists that are there and what happens within those walls shows the love for the arts and it’s brought life to that building. It’s important that you cultivate the interest and you have those things in place that will drive the facility. But Madison’s very frugal in managing our funds. We have priorities and the number one priority is to keep Madison safe. Because if you lose the safety of your community, you lose your community. It affects your businesses, your home values, everything. Almost a third of our budget goes to law enforcement… Our focus is to protect the citizens of Madison.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I’ve heard people compare Madison events to Fondren events. What do you think about that?</p>
<p>“I don’t really know a lot about Fondren’s events. I know that what we do, most of our events are focused on children. Swing into Summer, Movie Under the Stars, most of it’s for family and children. And we also have our retirement programs run through the chamber. Easter Egg Hunt, Christmas Parade, sometimes we have mother-daughter teas. It’s mostly focused on family.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Who’s your mentor, if you have one?</p>
<p>“I lost both parents when I was very</p>
<p>See Mary Butler, Page 6A</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>young. Both of my parents died of leukemia. I have a very special lady that I lean on, adopted her as my mother, Lucille Nichols, who’s the administrator at the Home Place. She goes to work every day and she takes care of the elderly and she provides a home for those that may not have any place to live. She is totally in charge of the Home Place, she has compassion and love for people, and she’s totally selfless. I always said I wanted to be like her when I grow up.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Do you think Madison will expand or have future annexation?</p>
<p>“We did a huge annexation in 2011. There were some areas that were cut out because they had not yet been developed, and I think any annexation that we would do would be probably straightening some lines and, of course, one day I’d like to see Lost Rabbit in the city of Madison. But I don’t know that any of that’s going to be anytime soon because when we did that annexation, I made the statement that this would be Madison. But we did have some area cut out that I think we need to reclaim because we did not get it in that annexation.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>How much land did Madison gain in that annexation?</p>
<p>“Approximately 13 square miles.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Do you feel like there are currently enough schools in Madison?</p>
<p>“I support Dr. (Gene) McGee and his leadership and the Madison County school board, and I yield to whatever decisions they have because that’s their job. I’ll follow them where they go and support them because you can’t argue with success and you see what they’ve been able to do and the ratings our schools have. I brag on our schools because they’re the lifeline of Madison.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>How do you protect and promote the feel of your downtown with Grandview just down the street?</p>
<p>“Architectural design and landscaping are the keys.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Have you lived in Madison your whole life?</p>
<p>“No, I grew up in Jackson, went to Jackson Public Schools. I found and fell in love with Madison when I was 15. I moved my little antique shop next to Madison town hall, where Persnickety is today. I helped the city clerk hand-address water bills. If she had to go to the beauty shop or to the doctor, I would answer the phone and watch out the window for a customer. If I had a customer, I’d lock town hall, wait on my customer, and go back to my post. I always claim Madison as my home because I spent more time there, and I always felt my heart was tied to Madison.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>How old were you when you got into politics?</p>
<p>“At an early age, my plans were to finish college, go law school, and run for mayor of Madison. Because I thought you had to be a lawyer, but you don’t. I lost my parents, so my world turned upside down. But I always knew I was going to run for mayor of Madison. I finally moved to Madison in the 1970s after college. The mayor resigned and an alderman ran for mayor and won and his position was open. So I ran for alderman in 1980. I was either 25 or 26, my mid-20s.</p>
<p>“It was obvious that things needed to change because I saw what was happening on the board. Decisions were being made based on who somebody was rather than what was best for Madison. I tried to find someone to run for mayor and nobody would do it because they said the mayor couldn’t be beat. At the very last minute, as they say, I threw my bonnet in the ring and I ran against someone that had been my friend. But I didn’t approve of what he was doing so I ran, and I won by 61 votes.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>You always said, ‘Rooftops before businesses.’ Did you ever envision it would be such a success?</p>
<p>“I believed it. I believe that we redefine economic development. We knew Madison would not be a community for labor-intense industry, and that if we treated housing as our industry and people as our business, that we would build a place to live with good schools, quality of life, a safe community. When the rooftops are counted, the business would come because they want to make a profit. We would create and build our own market base, and they would come with the landscaping, the signage and the architectural design.”</p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-section field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/front-page-slideshow"><span>Front Page Slideshow</span></a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news"><span>News</span></a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-event-calendar-date field-type-datetime field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Date:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, November 30, 2016 - 17:15</span></div></div></div>Wed, 30 Nov 2016 23:09:27 +0000wmccain3287 at http://northsidesun.comchildhood memorieshttp://northsidesun.com/front-page-slideshow-news/childhood-memories
<div class="field field-name-field-image field-type-image field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><img src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/field/image/sheila%20palmer.JPG?itok=rRKaDUyP" width="576" height="360" alt="" /></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"> <p>SheILa Palmer shares experience of pearl harbor day and time spent in Japan</p>
<p>Sheila Palmer doesn’t remember much about the attack on Pearl Harbor. She was four years old.</p>
<p>She recalls being thrown under the dining room table by her mother as Japanese fighters flew over the Hawaiian Islands.</p>
<p>She also remembers the bomb shelter drills that she and her neighbors had to learn after the attack.</p>
<p>“I didn’t like it at all. It was dark and dank, and (there were) bugs,” she said, recalling the conditions of the shelters.</p>
<p>As the 75th anniversary of the attacks approach, Palmer reflects on her experience, as a survivor and later life in Japan.</p>
<p>Her experiences have allowed her to see the worst and best of the Japanese culture.</p>
<p>“The Japanese people are very forgiving. I don’t imagine they wanted war any more than we did,” she said. “They were influenced by their military.”</p>
<p>In 1941, Palmer’s father, Gerald Lewis Christie, was stationed in Pearl Harbor, and was aboard the USS Helm during the attacks.</p>
<p>The ship was damaged during the assault, but was able to shoot down two Japanese Zeros (Kamikaze planes) before making it out to sea.</p>
<p>“We were close to Diamond Head. Mother could see the Zeros in the air. She came in, got me and threw me under the dining room table, and that’s where we stayed until the attacks were over,” she said.</p>
<p>“I remember bits and pieces. I knew mother was agitated, but I didn’t know why.”</p>
<p>Later, Palmer learned that her father was out at sea for two weeks. During that time, the Helm maintained radio silence, to avoid being detected by Japanese submarines.</p>
<p>For those two weeks, Palmer’s mother, Jeanne Christie, didn’t know if her husband was dead or alive.</p>
<p>Jeanne never told her daughter. “She tried to maintain a semblance of sanity, just like any military wife would,” she said.</p>
<p>Today, Palmer and her husband Jim reside in Fondren.</p>
<p>Palmer was born in Long Beach, Calif., and moved across the country as her dad, a Naval officer, was transferred to new assignments.</p>
<p>“I went to 12 schools before I graduated high school. My dad served in World War II, Korea and part of Vietnam,” she said.</p>
<p>Palmer was a sophomore at San Diego State University when her dad was transferred to Japan.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Despite having been dating her future husband, she decided to go with her family to the islands, because she wanted to experience the culture.</p>
<p>“This was a rare opportunity, so I went.” There she taught English, modeled and worked on a TV show called “English for Millions.”</p>
<p>Her father negotiated labor agreements for the U.S. government.</p>
<p>“That’s when I learned to appreciate the Japanese culture. They’re hard-working, family-oriented and very forgiving,” she said.</p>
<p>“I got letters from people who lived in the areas we bombed and met people on the subway and train who asked, ‘will you help me with English,’” she said. “They wanted to hear it more and more.</p>
<p>“I had two university students come to the base. They had no money, but they played tennis. I told them if they taught me tennis, I would teach them English. When I left Japan, they gave me a tennis racquet.</p>
<p>“I almost cried, because I knew how much it must have cost them,” she recalled.</p>
<p>Palmer continues to teach English today. Recently, she was approached by Ryo Ozawa, whose husband works at Nissan in Canton. Palmer is tutoring her once a week.</p>
<p>“I picked up a lot of Japanese. I can travel and ask questions and order food. I wouldn’t say I’m conversational, but I can make my needs known.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p>While in Japan, Palmer continued her studies, taking correspondence courses from the University of Maryland. She also became a member of the Japanese-United States Student Congress.</p>
<p>She pulled out a hardbound book and turned to a page with a large black and white photograph. In the picture, Palmer was presenting a medal to Prince Takamatsu, a member of the Japanese royal family.</p>
<p>“The purpose (of the group) was to improve relationships and learn more about the cultures,” she said. “We were invited to the Imperial Palace, which is seldom open to the public. </p>
<p>“They had their royal musicians play their instruments. The drums were a story high. It was amazing to watch.”</p>
<p>She returned to the states after marrying Jim.</p>
<p>Palmer met Jim on a blind date while attending San Diego State.</p>
<p>“I dated him for a year. Father got duty in Japan and I went there.”</p>
<p>Jim called Sheila to propose shortly after she arrived on the islands.</p>
<p>“I said ‘yes,’ ” she said.</p>
<p>Jim, who was in the Navy himself, came over in 1961, and the two were married in Tokyo.</p>
<p>The new couple traveled the island for a short time, before Jim had to go back to the states. Palmer came back the commercial route, and joined her husband in Coronado, Calif.</p>
<p>“I told him I wanted roots, so he got out of the Navy four or five months later. I wanted my children to experience lifelong relationships. There are pros and cons of (being in a military family). You pick up and leave, and you never see those people again. There are no relationships there.</p>
<p>“I wanted my children to have friends and family around them,” she said. </p>
<p>The two relocated to Jackson, to be closer to his family. “Jim had gotten a job with Merrill Lynch, so he was already employed when he came back,” she said.</p>
<p>For Sheila, the move to the capital city was culture shock.</p>
<p>“I didn’t know what grits were, or what fried catfish and turnip greens were. I love them all now, but it was like going to another country,” she said.</p>
<p>Sheila and Jim have two daughters, Chrisler and Margaret; and four grandchildren, Palmer, Alex, Kelsey and Ryan.</p>
<p>The two attend Covenant Presbyterian Church.</p>
<p>Palmer has not returned to Japan since coming back to the states. “Jim was starting in business and I was having babies, so it was put on the back burner,” she said. “I would love to, but it’s an expensive proposition and I would probably want to stay for a while and travel (the islands) a bit.”</p>
<p><img alt="" class="media-image" style="width: 300px; height: 180px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid;" src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/Pearl%20Harbour2.jpg?itok=_WSfpaaA" width="576" height="345" /><img alt="" class="media-image" style="width: 300px; height: 166px; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid;" src="http://northsidesun.com/sites/northsidesun.com/files/styles/large/public/Pearl%20Harbour.jpg?itok=y9m8lW1n" width="576" height="318" /></p>
</div></div></div><div class="field field-name-field-section field-type-taxonomy-term-reference field-label-hidden"><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><a href="/front-page-slideshow"><span>Front Page Slideshow</span></a></div><div class="field-item odd"><a href="/news"><span>News</span></a></div></div></div><div class="field field-name-event-calendar-date field-type-datetime field-label-above"><div class="field-label">Date:&nbsp;</div><div class="field-items"><div class="field-item even"><span class="date-display-single">Wednesday, November 30, 2016 - 17:00</span></div></div></div>Wed, 30 Nov 2016 23:07:31 +0000wmccain3286 at http://northsidesun.com